Monday, Dec. 6 through Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021 Issue No. 410

Ultimate Sports Guide/Sports Today! Publisher: Christopher Weills Marketing Director: Robert Moselle Director of Sales: Ann Cooke Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee. Kenny Karst (retired). Contributors: Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Dave Newhouse, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net Contact us at: TheUltimateSportsGuide@gmail.com

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Major League Baseball

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred (left) and Major League Players Association Executive Tony Clark (right) confer during the 2021 World Series at Minute Maid Field in Houston. The two sides met on Wed Dec 1, 2021 for just seven minutes and adjourned as the lockout became official

Major League Baseball Officially in Lockout by Amaury Pi-Gonzalez

At 12:00 AM (midnight) Thursday, December 2, 2021, owners locked out players after both sides failed to come to a contract of a new CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement). For the first time since 1994-1995 there is a Lockout in the game. The best news is that this is happening early, with two-and-a half months before all 30 teams report to their respective training camps in Arizona and Florida. The 2022 season is scheduled to begin on March 31. Without a new CBA, which is the negotiated accord that governs 99.9 % of the working relationships between MLB and MLBPA (players association), there is no baseball, there are no games, and transactions between teams are now frozen. During a lockout, free agency and trades of major league players are not allowed. To make this clear: A strike is when the labor side (players and their union) puts a halt to operations, while a lockout is when management (owners) initiates the stoppage. In other words; a strike is when the players refuse to work while a lockout is when the owners refuse to permit the players to play. In this case, it is a lockout. During the past three weeks, teams have spent close to $2 billion dollars in player signings. Max Scherzer, Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, Robbie Gray, Byron Buxton, Kevin Gausman, and Javy Baez are among some of the players that have received new contracts with new teams for between $100 million to $325 million. By looking at these signings we would think the business of baseball is doing great. Owners do not pay these contracts, because they are “nice guys.” As blunt as it sounds, owners do not go into the baseball business to be nice, but to make money. Because many of them want to win and want to hire the best talent available they make these investments. The MLB revenues have increased from less than $5 billion in 2005 to more than $10 billion, during the last pre-pandemic season. I cannot believe this lockout could go into the 2022 season, but if that happens nobody should be shocked. There is too much at stake here for the game. Aside from this two protagonists (owners and players), there are many others that work in the game of baseball around the 30 major league cities in the country. They all want stability in their lives. Anxiety is considered a disorder and it is not pretty. Teams also like to plan for sponsors, ticket sales, promotions, and many people's livelihoods depends on the business of baseball and the majority are not players or owners. There are many things which both sides will negotiate for the next CBA contract. (Usually a contract of this sort last for five years). Here are just a few of those: Pitch clock (yes, to ‘speed-up’ the game) Creation of a “salary floor” Salary arbitration for players after two years, not the three currently. A quicker path to free agency. Universal Designated Hitter Revenue sharing (in 2021 a modified, loan-based revenue sharing was adopted) And many other issues that will not take a week or two to come to an agreement, or maybe it will? We can only go from the previous record of these type of negotiations and it is not a pretty sight. “Baseball is like a poker game. Nobody wants to quit when he’s losing; nobody wants you to quit when you’re ahead.” -- Jackie Robinson. * * * Amaury Pi-Gonzalez is Vice President of the Major League Baseball Hispanic Heritage Hall of Fame Museum and does News and Commentary at http://www.sportsradioservice.com. For earlier articles by Amaury Pi-Gonzalez published in Sports Today, click HERE.

Letters to the Editor Take My Coach, Please! While Rodney Dangerfield often makes an appearance in Sports Today articles or Haikus, it's time for a quick change of pace: Henny Youngman, enter stage left. Take my coach, please! First, let me offer props. to Larry Krueger of KNBR, and the pre-game and post-game team. Encyclopedic knowledge and objectivity, plus optimism when depression would be easy after a game like today's. I listened to the entire pre-game and the entire post-game shows. Coverage was thorough, caller-conversation was polite and professional and, to the extent it could be under the circumstances, enjoyable. Let me add one brief comment, as most S/T readers watched the game and have formed their opinions. Since our coach takes credit for improved player performance after "Talks" with Aiyuk and Jimmy G., (also known as "humiliation"), I suggest he have a'"talk" with himself.  Perhaps "they" could discuss the 96-yard 4th quarter drive and how it fizzled, special-team play and predictable runs. That way Coach can take the credit if the Niners top the Bengals next week. Jacques Diamond Oakland, CA

Contents Columns Hardly Trivial by T. Buff Games Cal Bears 24, USC Trojans 14 San Francisco 49ers 23, Seattle Seahawks 30 BYU over Santa Clara Broncos, 0-0, (3-2 PK) , Women's College Cup Features Dubs vs. Suns, Games 1 & 2, by Howard Pearlstein Major League Baseball Officially in Lockout, by Amaury Pi-Gonzalez Sports Haikus©️ What Happens in Vegas..., by Andy Dolich Organizations Golden Gate Fields Oakland A's Oakland Roots San Francisco Giants San Jose Earthquakes San Jose State Spartans WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

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San Francisco 49ers 23 Seattle Seahawks 30

The San Francisco 49ers narrow 30-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, in a highly entertaining game, cannot be laid at the feet of George Kittle. All the talented tight end did was haul in five catches for 121 yards and demonstrate remarkable agility as he tiptoed down the sidelines on a 48-yard reception for one of his two touchdowns. The 49ers hopes died in Seattle's red zone as time ran out and quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's fourth down pass was batted away by a Seahawk defender. Final score: 49ers 23, Seahawks 30. The Niners (6-6) next foe are the Cincinnati Bengals (7-5) on Sunday, December 12, at 1:25 p.m. in Cincinnati, OH. CBS • KNBR 680 AM • 104.5 FM •  107.7 FM “The Bone"

49ers Schedule

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San Francisco Giants

To Our Fans, As you have most likely heard, MLB initiated a lockout of Major League players earlier this morning in an effort to create urgency in the negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement. While this is not where anyone wanted to be at this point, we remain hopeful that the parties will continue to work thoughtfully and diligently to reach a timely agreement that will strengthen our game. In the meantime, the Giants will continue to focus on preparing for the upcoming season and defending our NL West title. As always, we truly appreciate your continued patience and support and we wish you a very joyous holiday season. With deep gratitude, The San Francisco Giants

Giants Agree to Two-Year contract with LHP Alex Wood The Giants and left-handed pitcher Alex Wood have agreed to terms on a two-year Major League contract worth $25 million. Wood will make $12.5 million in both 2022 and 2023. Wood, 30, went 10-4 with a 3.83 ERA (59er, 138.2ip) and 152 strikeouts in 26 starts in 2021, his first season with the Giants. It was the fourth time in his career (and first time since 2017) that he reached double-digit wins and his 3.83 ERA was his lowest since 2018. His 152 strikeouts were the second-most of his career behind 170 strikeouts in 2014 with Atlanta. The Giants were 19-7 in Wood’s 26 regular season starts this past season and were 14-3 as a team over his final 17 starts of the season.

Oakland A's

A's Fan, Thank you for your continued support of the Green and Gold. It was incredible to have you back at the Coliseum this year, which makes the news we are sharing today very difficult. Despite Major League Baseball's best efforts to reach an agreement by offering a set of compromises aimed at addressing the Players Association's stated concerns in a manner fair to both sides, the current CBA has expired. Therefore, MLB has been forced to commence a defensive lockout of Major League players, effective at 12:01 a.m. on December 2. We are disappointed in this situation. MLB negotiated in good faith, worked tirelessly, and exhausted every reasonable avenue to try to avoid the first work stoppage in nearly 30 years. MLB continues to work to reach an agreement by offering solutions aimed to address the Players Association's stated concerns in a manner that is fair to both sides, improves competitive balance on the field so every team has a chance to compete, and improves and preserves the game of baseball. This does not mean games will be cancelled. MLB is taking this step now because delaying this process further would only put Spring Training, Opening Day, and the rest of the season at further risk. We are confident that there is a path to an agreement and both sides will work together. We will continue to share necessary updates. For more information, please visit mlb.com/update. We thank you for your patience and can't wait to see you again at the Coliseum in 2022. Oakland Athletics

Hardly Trival by T. Buff

Here we go again! The MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement expired on 12/02/2021. Because the owners could not get a new agreement signed, they have locked out the players.  https://cnb.cx/3rA9OVT will take you to the story. Will this lead to a late-starting season in 2022? Only time will tell. It is not the first strike/lockout in MLB! The most recent debacle was in 1994/1995! When was the first MLB strike?  (See answer below...)

Cal Bears 24 USC Trojans 14

The Cal band takes to the field prior to the annual Joe Roth Memorial game on Saturday evening, December 4. The California Golden Bears (5-7) played host to the Southern California Trojans (4-8) at FTX Field at Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, CA. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Cal head coach Justin Wilcox (left) honored each Cal senior as they entered the field. First in line was defensive lineman Luc Bequette (#93). Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

The Cal defense was attacking from the first series. Above, safeties Daniel Scott (#32), Raymond Woodie III (#5), and Elijah Hicks (#3) stop Trojan receiver Tahj Washington (#16). Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Hitting their celebration moves, linebackers Trey Paster (#27) and Femi Oladejo (#43) celebrate after a tackle for a loss of yardage. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Cal senior tight end Jake Tonges (#85) stiff arms cornerback Issac Taylor-Stuart who loses his helmet on a play that netted 39 yards for the Bears.  Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Cal senior running back Christopher Brooks (#34) hands the ball to the referee after scoring his first of two touchdowns. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

The scoreboard at Memorial Stadium records the score of Cal's final game of the 2021 season, a convincing 24-14 victory over their SoCal rival and their first home win against the Trojans since 2003. To view a game photo album, visit our Facebook Page and be sure to LIKE us or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

San Jose State Spartan Awards

San José State defensive lineman Viliami Fehoko (42, left) and linebacker Rico Tolefree (16, bottom) sack Wyoming quarterback Levi Williams (15) for a two-yard loss near the end of the first half. Caption and photo by Alex Ho.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.----- There are two “firsts” for San Jose State University among the 2021 Mountain West individual football award winners based on a vote by the conference’s 12 head coaches and selected media members that cover the conference regularly.   • A team record 12 players were named either as a first-team, second-team, or honorable mention All-Mountain West award recipient. The previous San Jose State football high mark was 11 players in 2020.   • For the first time since joining the Mountain West in 2013, two Spartans, defensive end Viliami Fehoko and linebacker Kyle Harmon, are repeat first-team all-conference selections in football.   Fehoko led the Spartans (5-7, 3-5 MW) in tackles for loss at 10.5, quarterback sacks at 7.0, and in forced fumbles with three. He also blocked a kick scoring attempt. Among conference players in games played through November 27, Fehoko is tied for seventh for sacks per game, tied for 12th in tackles for loss per game, and tied for sixth in forced fumbles.

Fresno State Bulldog running back Malik Sherrod (22) rushed for a two-yard gain late in the fourth quarter before being hauled down by Spartans linebacker Kyle Harmon (45). Caption and photo by Rich Yee. A 2020 first-team All-Mountain West choice like Fehoko, Harmon leads the conference and is third nationally in tackles per game with 11.1 figure. His 6.0 tackles for loss ranks second on the squad and his one quarterback sack on the season clinched the Spartans’ 27-20 win at UNLV.   Offensive tackle Jack Snyder was named to the All-Mountain West second team – his third all-conference award in the last three seasons. Snyder was a first-team choice in 2020 and an honorable mention honoree in 2019. He joins former punter Michael Carrizosa to earn an All-Mountain West honor in three consecutive seasons (2015, 2016, 2017). #SpartanUp sjsuspartans.com

Oakland A's Relocation Treatise

Moving into the Las Vegas ballpark home of the Triple A Aviators may be an option

What Happens In Vegas... by Andy Dolich

Attention Oakland A’S Fans: Before you start waving goodbye to the Green and Gold on their way to Las Vegas, there are a few facts worthy of review. 1. According to A’s President Dave Kaval, the team is still pursuing their “Parallel Path” plan of a $12 billion dollar privately financed urban ballpark city at Howard Terminal and finding a new home in Southern Nevada. Current focus is the Tropicana Hotel property. 2. Who is going to pay the approximate $1.4 billion dollars necessary for a convertible domed air conditioned ballpark in Hot Vegas? Team owner John Fisher has been 100% consistent in his verbal commitment that any new ballpark will be “100% privately financed.” Only time and a few billion privately financed dollars of Fisher’s portion will prove that true or false. At this point no person or entity has come forward in Southern Nevada saying they will pay for a building and infrastructure costs for a new ballpark. No matter where the A’s might end up in Vegas, the team will need to come up with their own financing plan. Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak says he won’t call a special session to use hotel taxes for any part of the ballpark budget. Sisolak said the A’s have inquired about possible public financing for the stadium. “They asked about room taxes, and I said that’s not going to happen. I don’t know if they know what they’re looking for exactly. I explained to them that I didn’t want to be a stalking horse. They said they weren’t doing that, and they were serious about this.” 3. Relocation Fee. The other 29 owners of MLB franchises will want a check for a move to Las Vegas. Some insiders view that check in the range of $500 million. Who will be paying for that? 4. A ballpark in Las Vegas will take a minimum of two-plus years of actual construction once every detail of a legally binding contract between the A’s, city, state authorities and MLB is concluded. Opening day in Neonville could be 2025. Where are the A’s going to be playing in the interim? I guess they could move into the Las Vegas ballpark home of the Triple A Aviators. Factoring in Covid-19, the A’s drew 701,430 to the Coliseum last season. It was the lowest attendance for the franchise since 1979. Good luck marketing a lame duck Elephant. 5. What is the logic of leaving one of Major League Baseball’s most diverse markets for one that isn’t. MLB would be saying goodbye to the sixth largest market in the country, with deep pocketed citizens, to the 41st. The service oriented community of Vegas are 9-5 workers. They go to work at 9 PM and get off at 5 AM. 6. The Las Vegas Raiders are not going to be happy with any other stadium near Allegiant Stadium. I’m sure their behind-the-scenes politicking has already started. 7. Where do fans park? How are the 30,000 people who are going to attend the proposed Las Vegas A’s baseball games going to park for 81 home games? Public transportation in Vegas is not a strong point. The majority of attendees are not just taking the casino elevators down to street level and walking to the park. 8. If Oakland city officials paid any attention to the recent $790 million judgment in the NFL St. Louis Rams case they should already be preparing legal action against the A’s and MLB if Oakland heads to the desert. 9. The A’s are serious about relocating to Las Vegas. They have made that perfectly clear. They were also serious about building a new baseball park in Fremont, San Jose, Victory Court, and the Peralta College office site. 10. Opening day of the 2022 season for the A’s will be at the Coliseum on Thursday, March 31 vs. the Los Angeles Angels with MVP Shohei Ohtani. Hopefully the current lockout will be but a distant memory.  * * * Andy Dolich has over five decades of leadership in the sports industry, including executive positions in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, pro soccer and lacrosse. Presently Dolich is EVP of the Fan Controlled Football (FCF) and teaches sports business at Stanford's School of Continuing Studies. Dolich is also co-author of: 20 Secrets to Success for NCAA Student-Athletes Who Won't Go Pro and co-author of LOL, Loss of Logo, What's Your Next Move? For earlier articles by Andy Dolich published in Sports Today!, click HERE.

Golden State Warriors

It ain’t over till the Point Guard Shimmies Dubs vs. Suns, Games 1 & 2 by Howard Pearlstein First game: Suns 104, Dubs 96 -- Tuesday, November 30. Amazing. It was a masterclass in basketball, a tutorial for kids in high school and college explaining it: “This is the way you play if you’re going to play the game.” Offense and defense, even to showing students of the game (and unhappily, for the Dubs fans): “This is the way you shut down the best shooter in the NBA.” But by the end it hardly mattered who won. Didn’t matter that I’ve been a Warriors fan since 1956 growing up in Philly -- that game was like watching a gymnast score a unanimous 10 on the floor. Didn’t matter if it was your team or someone else’s. Just WOW! And the final score was close, not any sort of blowout. But by the next day, the sportswriters – even the best – were going nuts. The Sky is Falling!! Aiyeee! The world is over! Aiyeee! The season is over! Demanding that Klay and Wiseman be brought up immediately, regardless of any need to finish developing the physical stamina they need after a couple of hideously endless years in non-playing rehab purgatory so they wouldn’t go down with a repeat injury. (And bear in mind, we can expect the first few games after those two sorely missed players return, will be a bit awkward, as everyone gets used to the change in rhythms and movements.) Hey – they needed to lighten up. The Dubs only lost by eight points and getting caught between a Rock and a 7-Foot Hard Place named Ayton and McGee. And, of course, “the best shooter in the NBA” did not get that label by accident. Three days later he figured it out and came in knowing what they were doing, basically telling them: “Do your worst,” and compensating, finishing up with 23 points, just below his usual average. As did the other Dub they were gunning for -- Jordan Poole, while Wiggins and GPII and Bjelica and JT-A finished above theirs, winning by 22 points. And my favorite player, the one who most resonates with me since Andre Iguodala, and the one I’ve most wanted to see excel since he came on board -- Oaklander Juan Toscano-Anderson -- he answered the 7-Foot-Hard Place by throwing down a basket OVER JaVale McGee. (A player I used to really enjoy when he was one of the Dubs, and was sorry to see him go back then. Hell, I still have his T-shirt in my bottom drawer.) Lighten up. It’s not the end of the world. Long season, players getting better and better... Just remember – it ain’t over till the Point Guard Shimmies. P.S. -- Talk about sportsmanship: After the game, at the presser, JT-A said it was the best dunk of his career and he was going to put the poster of it on his bedroom wall -- to which JaVale McGee responded with characteristic class -- a Twitter Tweet -- Congrats young fella I'll sign it for you!

Warriors Announce Season of Giving

Warriors Announce Season of Giving Efforts for Upcoming Holiday Season Events Throughout the Bay Area Planned to Spread Holiday Cheer to Underserved Communities   SAN FRANCISCO – As part of the NBA Cares Season of Giving league-wide campaign, Golden State Warriors players, coaches, and front office staff will host a variety of events throughout the Bay Area this holiday season to brighten the lives of local families and youth. Throughout the coming weeks, members of the Warriors organization will engage with underserved communities, youth with life-threatening medical conditions and local non-profit community groups to spread holiday cheer.   Earlier this month, Warriors forward Juan Toscano-Anderson hosted a Thanksgiving Holiday Meal Basket Giveaway, where families in Oakland received a curated holiday meal basket to use at their family celebrations. In addition, the Warriors employees supported the City of Oakland’s 30th Annual Community Day of Thanks by distributing meals to community members and local recreation centers. For the complete Warriors Calendar of Spectacular December Events,  contact Kimberly Veale, (KVeale@warriors.com)

BYU over Santa Clara, 0-0 (3-2 PK) Women's College Cup

Santa Clara Junior midfielder Izzy D'Aquila (#9) takes a shot in the first half. BYU over Santa Clara 0–0 (3–2 PK) in the second semifinal match of the 2021 Women's College Cup at Stevens Stadium, Santa Clara University on December 3, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. © 2021 Alex Ho.

Santa Clara forward Kelsey Turnbow (#10) and BYU Sophomore defender Laveni Vaka (#26) fight for the ball along the sideline. © 2021 Alex Ho.

Santa Clara Senior midfielder Skylar Smith (#4) pulls down a high pass during the second overtime period in front of the Bronco supporters. © 2021 Alex Ho.

Santa Clara Sophomore forward Sally Menti (#24) makes the Broncos’ first penalty kick. © 2021 Alex Ho.

Santa Clara head coach Jerry Smith thanks fans after the game. To view a game photo album, visit our Facebook Page and be sure to LIKE us or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net. © 2021 Alex Ho.

San Jose Earthquakes

Cowell, Yueill Called to U.S. Men's National Team December Camp SAN JOSE, Calif. - San Jose Earthquakes forward Cade Cowell and midfielder Jackson Yueill have been called to the U.S. Men's National Team camp by head coach Gregg Berhalter from December 5-19 in Los Angeles, Calif. They are among 26 players selected to participate in the camp and compete in a friendly match vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina on Saturday, Dec. 18 at Dignity Health Sports Park (5:15 p.m. PT; FS1, UniMás, TUDN). Cowell, 18, is entering his fourth season with San Jose and has since tallied six goals and seven assists in 50 appearances. Cowell recorded career highs in appearances (33), starts (14), minutes (1,664) and shots (42) in 2021, earning the club's Young Player of the Year award and a selection to the 2021 MLS All-Star Team. The Ceres, Calif. native has made eight prior appearances for the United States at the U-16, U-17, and U-20 levels, most recently representing the U.S. U-20s in the Revelations Cup 2021 in Mexico last month. Yueill, 24, has made 15 prior appearances for the U.S. National Team, most notably helping the Americans win the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup and the 2021 Nations League earlier this year. The Bloomington, Minn. native has made 116 appearances for San Jose since being selected in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, tallying seven goals and 10 assists, and earning the team's Young Player of the Year award in 2019 and 2020 and the Media Good Guy Award in 2021. Yueill, who often donned the captain's armband this past season, scored three goals in 29 appearances (28 starts) for the Earthquakes in 2021. www.sjearthquakes.com

The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

"Good things come to those who wait" and we have decided we don't want to wait any longer. The Guinness is pouring well and honestly we can't drink it all by ourselves so join us. Reopening October 1st. We will be open 7 days a week, Monday through Thursday, 3pm til close. Friday through Sunday 12pm til close. Look forward to seeing all your smiling faces once again. https://www.thechieftain.com/

Sports Haiku

Haiku: A traditional Japanese haiku is a three-line poem with seventeen syllables, written in a 5/7/5 syllable count. Sports Today has expanded Haikus to embrace our readership and invites you to submit your own. Top entry will be published! The Ultimate Sports Guide/Sports Today! wishes our readers a very Happy Holiday Season!  This week's winner presents a commentary on the newest development in collegiate sports: Name, Image and Likeness,  and earns the highly sought-after Haiku Contest prize -- publication in Sports Today!  Congratulations to regular contributor Jerry Monkman,  South San Francisco, CA, who ponders why only 'jocks' qualify for athletic scholarships, when the real power lies with those who mold behavior on a global scale: "The Influencers!"  We thank the many readers who submit creative, witty, and often profound Haikus. NAME IMAGE LIKENESS I CAN'T RUN OR THROW BUT I'M AN INFLUENCER WHERE'S MY SCHOLARSHIP?

Name, Image, Likeness For a sample NIL college policy, here is a link to Washington and Lee University's NIL Guidelines. (W&L is also the alma mater of Sports Today!'s Marketing Director, Robert Moselle). Go Generals! Courtesy of Robert, a proud alumnus of Washington & Lee, this information may be a valuable resource for many in Athletic Departments and of interest for many others.   https://generalssports.com/sports/2021/9/22/washington-and-lee-nil-guidelines.aspx As noted in the USG's own Haiku below, we invite entries for "Best Sports Haiku." The winner will be published! Sports Haikus ©️ USG/Sports Today's Haiku Invitation Ultimate Sports Guide Wants to Publish Your Haiku You must send it in. To: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com

Editor's Note Have a favorite Sports Moment you would like to share? With perhaps with a photo or two? Send a brief description along with any photos and we'll make room. Why not bring those memories to life? Write: sportstoday@ultimatesportsguide.net

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Because They Believed

Dear History Lover: After toiling in a reluctant society for the past several years with our documentary, we can now announce that our film, Because They Believed, is available online!  This holiday season consider giving the gift of education with this film. It’s intended for all ages and released at the right time with the prevalence of systemic racism, and social justice as a current topic.  Please click on this link for the trailer and to order: https://streetdreamsproductions1.vhx.tv/

Stanford Business School Winter, 2022

High-Performing Teams: Lessons from the Sports World According to basketball legend Michael Jordan, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” Without organization-wide teamwork, leadership, and trust, sustaining a championship level of performance—in sports or business—is highly unlikely. How do leaders of the most successful sports franchises overcome the hurdles of free agency, arcane rules, injuries, egos, salary battles, operational challenges, and the human element? How can these lessons be effectively applied to every type of business? In this course, we will look at how sports organizations achieve smooth and superior transitions from year to year, especially after the rigors of championship seasons. Difference makers in the world of sports, including team executives, general managers, athletic directors, coaches, media observers, and athletes, will discuss the elements necessary to create and maintain elite-performing organizations, and reveal how a prevailing commonality among all of them includes a powerful culture. Students will leave the course able to apply broad relevant concepts to their challenges, such as alignment of goals, adherence to culture, and pervasive interactive communication, as well as numerous operational pearls of wisdom from guest experts. Andy Dolich President, Dolich Consulting; EVP, Fan Controlled Football Andy Dolich has held executive positions in the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. He is a co-author of 20 Secrets to Success for NCAA Student-Athletes Who Won’t Go Pro and LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? He is also the co-host of the podcast Life in the Front Office and a columnist for the Ultimate Sports Guide. BUS 209 Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:50 pm (PT) 10 weeks, January 12 – March 16 2 units, $640 Refund Deadline: January 14 Course Format: Live Online Registration begins 11/29 Information at continuingstudies.stanford.edu

Where The Bay Comes To Play!

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Oakland Roots SC

Oakland Roots SC

Roots Fam, As part of our 2021 End of Year Celebrations we are delighted to announce the launch of our first-ever Silent Auction in support of the Oakland Roots Justice Fund.  Even if you can’t make it to our event, the Silent Auction is your chance to get involved in the festivities and win iconic memorabilia from Bay Area sports history and Roots’ historic debut season in the USL Championship like signed and game-worn jerseys, amazing experiences from Roots and our partners like COPA Soccer Training Center, Puma, Oakland Zoo, Oakland Museum of California and Ale Industries and unique, original fashion and art items that cannot be found anywhere else! All proceeds from the Silent Auction will support the Oakland Roots Justice Fund, a charitable fund to support causes at the intersection of racial and gender justice. We created the fund because we believe that we cannot tackle injustice without addressing the intersectionality of systemic discrmination embedded in our society. Causes supported by the fund since its creation include Young Women’s Freedom Center, Radical Monarchs, Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, the Dr Huey P. Newton Foundation and the Common Goal Anti-Racist Project.    The Silent Auction will run until our End of Year Celebration on Friday December 10th. Don’t miss out on your chance to snag iconic items and experiences in support of a great cause.

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Golden Gate Fields

Boise with jockey Evin Roman wins the Gold Rush $75,000 Guaranteed with a time of 1:37.96. Trained by Jonathan Wong. Owned by Hall, Herbertson or Steimetz. Photo: Vassar Photography.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Tickets on sale Dec. 1 for the 2022 Season at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Campsites for all events also available Dec. 1  MONTEREY, Calif., Nov. 30, 2021 – If you’re looking for a stocking stuffer this holiday season, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has you covered.   Tickets for all premier events of the 2022 race season at the world-class track will go on sale Dec. 1 at WeatherTechRaceway.com.   The 2022 schedule begins with the Trans Am Speedfest (April 22-24), followed by the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, featuring the Hyundai Monterey Sports Car Championship (April 29 – May 1).   Motorcycle action returns to the Peninsula with the GEICO Motorcycle MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest (July 8-10, TBC) that brings championship riders to the home track of MotoAmerica president and three-time world champion Wayne Rainey. Then days later, the AHRMA Classic Motofest of Monterey (July 15-17) revs in with vintage motorcycles and off-road competition. Tickets for the MotoAmerica event can only be purchased on the MotoAmerica website and will be available shortly.   The Monterey Pre-Reunion (Aug. 13-14) leads into the world-renowned Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (Aug. 17-20). The 2022 edition of the prestigious event will feature a tribute to the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.   The Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey, featuring the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, will bring all the pomp and circumstance as the Sept. 9-11 Season Finale will crown the series champion. With its international driver lineup, WeatherTech Raceway is the place to be to see drivers from around the world compete for the championship. Concluding the 2022 season is the Velocity Invitational, Oct. 14-16 (TBC), which combines historic race cars with a relaxing lifestyle experience. For those who don't want to miss a moment of the memorable action, this year’s Season Pass grants general admission with Paddock access and general parking for all eight events. With a value of more than $600, the 2022 Season Pass is available for only $450. Monterey County residents save even further with 2022 Season Passes offered for a preferred price of $350.   The Family Friendly Package includes four general admission passes with Paddock access to all eight Premier events, all for just $1,000. Monterey County residents can again save further with Family Passes priced at $800. Campsites for all events will also be on sale Dec. 1. Only one campsite can be purchased for the Hyundai Monterey Sports Car Championship, Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey.   For all numbered campsites, customers may call the ticket office at (831) 242-8200. To ensure a smooth and efficient registration process, please have ready the campground name you are interested in, the length of your motorhome (if applicable), or the site number you would like to request, and the event for which you are interested in purchasing the campsite.   Using the website is strongly recommended, as the phones may be busy while the tickets and accommodations specialists assist customers. If you do choose to call, please press 1 when prompted. The next available agent will return your call as soon as possible. Please be aware that due to the heavy volume of incoming calls on Dec. 1, the ticket office will be closed to walk-ins, and will reopen Dec. 2 during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).   Don’t miss the 2022 season at WeatherTech Raceway! There will be unforgettable action at every turn, flanked by the breathtaking backdrop of Laguna Seca Recreation Area. For more information on the full schedule, please visit WeatherTechRaceway.com.

Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff

From 1994, the year of the last MLB work stoppage, aka strike 1972! What happened:  For the first time in baseball history, the players went on strike. The primary point of contention was the pension fund; players wanted inflation increases, and owners saw it as a chance to break the spirit of a union that was just starting to understand the potential of a powerful — and truly unified — union. ~ https://bit.ly/3uoKBfp   This very abbreviated answer is taken from a great Sporting News article about work stoppages in MLB, written in 2018. Ironically, if a strike occurs in 2022, it will occur in the 50th anniversary year of the first ever MLB strike. If not for the strike in 1972, the Boston Red Sox would probably have broken the 'Curse of the Babe,' as many games were cancelled.

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Recent Facebook Albums to Enjoy

Cal Bears 24, USC Trojans 14, December 4, 2021. Photos by Ron Sellers. BYU over Santa Clara, 0-0 (3-2 PK), Women's College Cup, December 3, 2021. Photos by Alex Ho. Stanford Cardinal 14, Notre Dame Fighting Irish 45, November 28, 2021. Photos by Alex Ho. San Jose State Spartans 9, Fresno State Bulldogs, 40, November 25, 2021. Photos by Rich Yee. Cal Bears 41, Stanford Cardinal 11, The Big Game, November 20, 2021. Photos by Alex Ho. Cal Bears (MBkB) 75, Southern Utah Thunderbirds 68 (Double Overtime) November 18, 2021. Photos by Ron Sellers. Cal Bears (MBkB) 75, San Diego 70, November 15, 2021. Photos by Ron Sellers. San Jose State Spartans 17, Utah State Aggies 48. November 13, 2021. Photos by Alex Ho. USF Dons (MBkB) 65, Davidson Wildcats 60. November 13, 2021. Photos by Darren Yamashita.  Cal (WBkB) 70, USF 41, November 13, 2021. Photos by Darren Yamashita.

Montrose, Colorado

For the best real estate listings homes and property on Colorado's Western Slope, visit www.montrosecoloradorealestate/PropertySearch.html

Consider! DO YOU LOVE SPORTS? And are you a techno-wizard who would like to be involved in the Bay Area Sports scene? The USG/Sports Today needs an "influencer."  We need You! The Ultimate Sports Guide/Sports Today needs people with social media savvy, website technology knowledge and e-marketing skills. Advance your career, add to your resume, and learn from sports industry professionals! Send a note and resume to sportstoday@ultimatesportsguide.net

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Weekly Bay Area Sports Calendar Monday, Dec. 6, through Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021

Monday, December 6 Golden State Warriors vs. Orlando Magic, 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 7 San Jose Sharks vs. Calgary Flames, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 8 Golden State Warriors vs. Portland Trail Blazers, 7 p.m. Thursday, December 9 San Jose Sharks vs. Minnesota Wild, 7:30 p.m. Friday, December 10 Saturday, December 11 Golden State Warriors @ Philadelphia 76ers, 5:30 p.m. San Jose Sharks vs. Dallas Stars, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 12 San Francisco 49ers @ Cincinnati Bengals, 1:25 p.m. Las Vegas Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs, 10 a.m.

Enjoy the  Ultimate Sports Guide website! Under the ultra-skilled leadership of Cal graduate Ricky Liu, a team of talented Cal students assembled the elegant Ultimate Sports Guide website for your readers. Ricky's team included Natalie Leung, Yafei Liang and Kasey Woo. Visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net

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This is an eBook available in .epub or .mobi file formats. Navigating a career in any business is highly complex, especially in the world of sports and entertainment. Knowing how to separate the logo on your business card from your personal identity is a valuable skill for creating your own career path. Building a career in the sports industry is easier said than done, especially since the business is extremely addictive. Cool corporate logos and titles should never control your true sense of self; your name on the card is much more important! Welcome to the world of LOL, or “Loss of Logo.” Written for aspiring sports professionals, current sports industry professionals, and any career enthusiasts who are chasing the fancy logo and corner office, LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? offers valuable takeaways for everyone. Comprised of powerful perspectives from 38 multitalented industry professionals, this book will give you the tools to succeed in the industry, with or without your logo.

To Order A Copy

The New York Yankees are the greatest dynasty, not only in baseball but in all of sports. The Yankees, in fact, embody a series of dynasties, from Ruth-Gehrig through Jeter-Rivera. But the absolute greatest Yankees were the 1949-1953 pinstripers, winners of an unprecedented five consecutive World Series. The Yankee Way, Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa writes in the book's forward, is “full of Yankee winning keys, star-studded competitions, and insights about one of baseball's historically fascinating periods.” Key contributors to this dynasty, including Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, Phil Rizzuto, and manager Casey Stengel, are remembered by their teammate, Charlie Silvera, catcher and co-author. Dave Newhouse was an award-winning sportswriter/columnist for the Oakland Tribune before his retirement. He has continued his work as an author and The Yankee Way is his eighteenth book. He lives with his wife, Patsy, an artist, in Oakland, CA. ISBN 978-1-937943-60-8 – 196 pages – $24.95 Published by St. Johann Press, P.O. Box 241, Haworth, NJ 07641 (201) 387-1529 www.stjohannpress.com

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Many people -- maybe even you -- have been getting out on their bikes more during Shelter-in-Place. "Check for Bikes" clings and bumper stickers are great ways to keep bicyclists safer out there on the road by promoting awareness by drivers to share the road. Keep safe out there and keep your neighbors safe by using or passing along vinyl clings for inside a car window or windshield and 4" circular bumper stickers. We have Youth and Spanish versions, too! Go to www.checkforbikes.org or email contact@checkforbikes.org with questions or to order.

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The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute through helpful ideas and his archives. Mr. Moselle is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.